31st Sunday in Ordinary Time

Today is the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time as we assemble to celebrate the Lord’s Day. Each week, “…on the first day of the week,” (Luke 24:1) we gather to remember the Resurrection victory of the Lord Jesus over sin and death. Every Sunday is commemorated by us with joy and gladness for we know that one day we too will share in the Lord’s victory. Today’s Gospel Acclamation from John 3:16 states it so beautifully, “
God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life.”

Yes, God loves us so much that He wants us to live with Him for all eternity and that is why He sent His ONLY BEGOTTEN SON to suffer, die and rise again. This is the way we must all go in order to have LIFE. SUND AY is for us the great day of life and all those who affirm life are drawn to celebrate the Lord’s Day each week.

On Tuesday we enter into the month of November, “the Month of All Souls.” The faithful departed are especially prayed for during this time so as to assist them as they make their way to the Heavenly Jerusalem. They are assisted on their journey through our prayers, the Masses we offer for their intention, the good works and sacrifices we offer on their account. These are all acts of faith and love which are transported to benefit the ones who we remember.

The highest form of prayer is the HOLY SACRIFICE OF THE MASS. Catholics have the pious tradition to remember their loved ones during the month of All Souls by placing an offering in the ALL SOULS ENVELOPE along with the names of the faithful departed so that they may be remembered at the Masses celebrated in the church during the month. In our parish these envelopes remain on the altar for the entire month so that we will remember to pray for them at every mass.

I would like to also remind you to visit the cemetery where your loved ones are buried during this month of All Souls. Praying at the grave, bringing flowers, lighting a candle (where permitted) are all acts of faith and love.

ETERNAL REST GRANT UNTO THEM, O LORD AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON THEM. MAY THEIR SOULS AND ALL THE SOULS OF THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED THROUGH THE MERCY OF GOD REST IN PEACE!

Father Zig

ALL SAINTS DAY – The Solemnity of All Saints is Tuesday, November 1st. A Vigil Mass will be celebrated in Sacred Heart of Jesus Church on Monday, October 31st at 7 o’clock. Holy Mass will be celebrated in Sacred Heart Church on Tuesday at 12 Noon. The Solemnity of All Saints will be observed in Saint Cecilia Church with 2 Masses on Tuesday at 8 o’clock in the morning and 7 o’clock in the evening. THIS IS A HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION!